Crash attenuator

ABSTRACT

The present disclosure includes a modular crash attenuator system including an array of attenuator segment pair assemblies. Each attenuator segment pair assembly includes a first attenuator segment and a second attenuator segment, a tensioning assembly configured to removably couple the first attenuator segment adjacent to the second attenuator segment, and a coupling assembly configured to removably couple the attenuator segment pair assembly to at least one other attenuator segment pair assembly. The crash attenuator system additionally includes a barrier attachment assembly disposed at a first end of the array and coupled to at least one attenuator segment pair and an end cap assembly disposed at a second end of the array, the second end being opposite the first end.

TECHNICAL FIELD

This disclosure relates to crash attenuator systems, and in particular crash attenuator systems comprising an array of segments.

BACKGROUND

Conventional crash attenuator systems include plastic segments that may or may not be filled with a weighting material that are designed to absorb or transfer the energy of an impact from a vehicle. The systems are typically installed on the end of “jersey” or “k-rail” barriers that may serve as permanent or temporary medians or guiderails on the side of a roadway. Conventional systems are commonly molded in a process known as rotational molding, which results in a thick plastic element. Rotational molding is a time-consuming manufacturing technique, which can take upwards of forty minutes per segment.

Conventional systems commonly include metal reinforcement that may be either rigid or flexible running through an interior of the plastic segments. This metal reinforcement must be molded into the plastic via over-molding techniques and results in a permanent affixation between the multiple plastic segments that make up the system.

Such techniques are impractical because should a single segment become damaged in the field or during shipment, repair is challenging and replacement is costly because entire subassemblies may need to be replaced. Not only is this costly, but time consuming. Accordingly, there is a need for a system that can be easily repaired and quickly and economically manufactured.

SUMMARY

The present disclosure includes a modular crash attenuator system including an array of attenuator segment pair assemblies. Each attenuator segment pair assembly includes a first attenuator segment and a second attenuator segment, a tensioning assembly configured to removably couple the first attenuator segment adjacent to the second attenuator segment, and a coupling assembly configured to removably couple the attenuator segment pair assembly to at least one other attenuator segment pair assembly.

The crash attenuator system additionally includes a barrier attachment assembly disposed at a first end of the array and coupled to at least one attenuator segment pair and an end cap assembly disposed at a second end of the array, the second end being opposite the first end.

Each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment includes an upper side, a lower side disposed opposite the upper side, a first lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, a second lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, the second lateral side disposed opposite the first lateral side, a first surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, the second surface disposed opposite the first surface. Furthermore, a first cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a first protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side. The first cavity on the first attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate the first protrusion on the second attenuator segment such that the first surface on the first attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the second attenuator segment when the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are in a deployed state.

In some embodiments, the first lateral side and the second lateral side of each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are further configured with at least two grooves configured to accommodate the tensioning assembly.

In another embodiment, a second cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a second protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side. The second cavity on the first attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate the second protrusion on the second attenuator segment such that the first surface on the first attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the second attenuator segment when the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are in the deployed state.

In another embodiment, the second surface of each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment is further configured with a recess to accommodate the coupling assembly.

In some embodiments, the coupling assembly includes a slotted tube configured to receive a securement bar for coupling the attenuator segment pair assembly to at least one other attenuator segment pair assembly. The slotted tube contains at least two securement holes on opposing surfaces of the slotted tube for receiving a securement pin. The other attenuator segment pair assembly includes a complementary slotted tube configured to align with the slotted tube of the coupling assembly in order to receive the securement bar. The securement bar contains a securement channel that aligns with the securement holes for receiving the securement pin, which secures the securement bar to the slotted tube.

In some embodiments, the securement pin is a quick-release style pin.

In some embodiments, the tensioning assembly comprises a plurality of tensioning cables configured to contact at least the first lateral sides and the second lateral sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment, and the tensioning cable are removably affixed to the coupling assembly.

In some embodiments the tensioning cables are removably affixed to the coupling assembly through a variable-tensioning assembly and are configured to provide a resultant compressive force between the first and second attenuator segments when the variable-tensioning assembly is in a deployed state.

In some embodiments, the variable-tensioning assembly comprises one or more eye-bolts threaded to one or more plates in the coupling assembly.

In some embodiments, the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are hollow and configured to be filled with water. The attenuator segments also include a fill location disposed on each of the upper sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment and a drain disposed on at least one of the first lateral sides or the second lateral sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment.

In some embodiments, the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment expand when filled with water.

In some embodiments, the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment comprise blow-molded high-density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a width of the array is approximately 24 inches and a height of the array is between 32 inches and 42 inches.

In some embodiments, the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are hollow and have an outer wall thickness of between approximately 0.188 inches and 0.438 inches.

Additionally, disclosed is a crash attenuator segment for use in a modular crash attenuator system. The crash attenuator segment includes an upper side, a lower side disposed opposite the upper side, a first lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, a second lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, the second lateral side disposed opposite the first lateral side, a first surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, the second surface disposed opposite the first surface. A first cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a first protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side. The first cavity on the attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate a first protrusion on a paired attenuator segment such that the first surface on the attenuator segment is substantially flush with a first surface on the paired attenuator segment when the attenuator segment and the paired attenuator segment are in a deployed state.

In some embodiments, the first lateral side and the second lateral side of the crash attenuator segment are further configured with at least two grooves configured to accommodate a tensioning assembly.

In some embodiments, the crash attenuator segment additionally includes a second cavity disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a second protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side. The second cavity on the attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate a second protrusion on the paired attenuator segment such that the first surface on the attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the paired attenuator segment when the attenuator segment and the paired attenuator segment are in the deployed state.

In some embodiments, the second surface of the attenuator segment is further configured with a recess to accommodate a coupling assembly.

In some embodiments, the crash attenuator segment is made of blow-molded high-density polyethylene.

In some embodiments, a width of the attenuator segment is approximately 24 inches and a height of the attenuator segment is between 32 inches and 42 inches. Furthermore, the attenuator segment is hollow and has an outer wall thickness of between approximately 0.188 inches and 0.438 inches.

BRIEF DESCRIPTION OF THE DRAWINGS

The accompanying drawings, which are included to provide further understanding and are incorporated in and constitute a part of this specification, illustrate disclosed embodiments and together with the description serve to explain the principles of the disclosed embodiments. In the drawings:

FIG. 1 illustrates an example crash attenuator system according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 2 illustrates an example of a barrier attachment assembly of an exemplary attenuator system according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

FIGS. 3, 4, 5, 6, 7, 8A, and 8B illustrate various views of an attenuator segment according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 9 illustrates attenuator segment pair assemblies according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

FIG. 10 illustrates a segment pair coupling assembly according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate various views of an end cap assembly according to certain aspects of the disclosure.

In one or more implementations, not all of the depicted components in each figure may be required, and one or more implementations may include additional components not shown in a figure. Variations in the arrangement and type of the components may be made without departing from the scope of the subject disclosure. Additional components, different components, or fewer components may be utilized within the scope of the subject disclosure.

In addition, each of the drawings is a schematic diagram and thus is not necessarily strictly illustrated. In each of the drawings, substantially the same structural components are assigned with the same reference signs, and redundant descriptions will be omitted or simplified.

DETAILED DESCRIPTION

The detailed description set forth below is intended as a description of various implementations and is not intended to represent the only implementations in which the subject technology may be practiced. As those skilled in the art would realize, the described implementations may be modified in various different ways, all without departing from the scope of the present disclosure. For example, while the crash attenuator systems discussed herein may be implemented in many different forms, the disclosure will show in the drawings, and will herein describe in detail, implementations with the understanding that the present description is to be considered as an exemplification of the principles of the modular crash attenuator system and is not intended to limit the broad aspects of the disclosure to the implementations illustrated. Accordingly, the drawings and description are to be regarded as illustrative in nature and not restrictive.

FIG. 1 illustrates an exemplary crash attenuator system 100 according to certain aspects of the disclosure. The crash attenuator system 100 includes a plurality of attenuator segment pairs 200, a barrier attachment assembly 500, and an end cap 600. FIG. 1 illustrates ten attenuator segment pairs 200, but the number of pairs is not limited to ten and may be less or more than the number show in FIG. 1. The number of attenuator segment pairs may be dependent on the application, for example, certain applications may necessitate a larger attenuation factor, and therefore necessitate the use of more attenuator segment pairs. Conversely, in applications where a lower attenuation factor is needed, a fewer attenuation pairs are utilized. The attenuation factor is dependent on multiple variables including, without limitation, anticipated impact speeds, collision angles, vehicular weight, segment fill amounts, and segment dimensions, and other factors.

The size of the crash attenuator system 100 is typically 24 inches in width due to the standard dimension of jersey barriers. In some embodiments, the length of the system 100 is between 20 feet and 34 feet long, and between 32 inches to 42 inches tall. In a preferred embodiment, the system is approximately 32 inches tall.

The exemplary crash attenuator system 100 consists of an array of segment pairs 200. Among the segment pairs including a front attenuator segment pair 200 a that is coupled to the end cap 600 and a terminal attenuator segment pair 200 b that is coupled to the barrier attachment assembly 500. Intermediate segment pairs between the front attenuator segment pair 200 a and the terminal attenuator segment pair 200 b are coupled to each other via a coupling assemblies 300. Each attenuator segment pair comprises a first attenuator segment 210 a, a second attenuator segment 210 b, a tensioning element 400, and a coupling assembly 300 (not shown in FIG. 1).

FIG. 2. Illustrates an exemplary barrier attachment assembly 500 connected to a terminal attenuator segment pair 200 b by a terminal coupling assembly 300 a. The barrier attachment assembly 500 is configured to be attached to a roadway barrier 510 such as a “jersey barrier,” “k-rail,” or other concrete barriers of a similar type that is known and used in the industry. The barrier 510 may be a permanent barrier or a temporary barrier. Barrier attachment assembly 500 may alternatively be attached to other types of barriers, such as longitudinal channelizing devices (LCDs), metal traffic barricades, or guardrails.

Barrier attachment assembly 500 additionally contains a terminal side coupling assembly 520 that is configured to cooperate with terminal coupling assembly 300 a to secure terminal attenuator segment pair 200 b to the barrier attachment assembly 500. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 2, the terminal side coupling assembly consists of a terminal slotted tube 522 consisting of a vertically aligned hollow tube that is affixed via welding or other attachment means to a terminal central cross member 524. The terminal slotted tube 522 aligns with one or more terminal loops 525 that are permanently affixed to the barrier attachment assembly 500 via welding or other means. When the terminal slotted tube 522 and terminal loops 525 are aligned, a terminal securement rod 526 is inserted in the channel formed by the slotted tube and terminal loops. When in a deployed position, the terminal securement rod 526 secures the barrier attachment assembly 500, terminal side coupling assembly 520, and terminal coupling assembly 300 a. To lock the terminal securement rod, a terminal quick release pin 528 is inserted through a channel formed by an opening in opposing sides of the terminal loop 525 and the terminal securement rod 526.

FIGS. 3 through 7, 8A, and 8B illustrate various views of an exemplary attenuator segment 111. The attenuator segment 210 includes an upper side 212, a lower side 213 disposed opposite the upper side, a first lateral side 214 a extending between the upper side and the lower side, a second lateral side 214 b extending between the upper side and the lower side, the second lateral side disposed opposite the first lateral side, a first surface 215 extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface 216 extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, the second surface disposed opposite the first surface.

In a preferred embodiment, the attenuator segment 210 comprises a hollow container formed by a blow molding process. The material of the attenuator segment 210 may be any form of plastic, but preferably is composed of high-density polyethylene (HDPE) or other such materials commonly used in the art of blow-molding manufacturing. In some embodiments the attenuator segment 210 has a thickness between approximately 0.078 inches and 0.625 inches. In a preferred embodiment, the thickness is between approximately 0.188 inches and 0.438 inches. The thickness may vary at different locations of the attenuator segment 210. The blow molding manufacturing process provides many advantages over traditional molding processes such as rotational molding. For example, blow-molding is a much faster process than rotational molding, which can take upwards of 40 minutes to complete a single segment, allowing for more product to be made in a given time period. As described previously, blow-molding results in a product with a wall thickness between 0.078 inches and 0.625 inches. This is generally thinner than a rotationally molded segment, which promotes ease of shipment and installation. The thinner materials also equate to savings in materials costs.

The elements of this disclosure can be formed of any number of polymers, rubbers, foams, metals, metal alloys, ceramics, woods or any other suitable material known to those skilled in the art. The blow molding process requires no drilling and allows the attenuator segments 210 to define a continuous, sealed and waterproof cavity therein.

In a deployed state, two attenuator segments 210 are designed to be paired into an attenuator segment pair 200. Within each attenuator segment pair 200, the first surface 215 of each attenuator segment 210 face each other and are designed to contact each other. In order to reduce movement between the attenuator segments 210 within the attenuator segment pair 200, a variety of mating features are disposed on the first surface 215 of each attenuator segment 210. For example, as shown in FIGS. 5-7, first surface may be configured with one or more protrusions 217 and cavities 218. The placement of the cavities 218 on the first surface 215 are designed to be adjacent the first lateral side 214 a and the protrusions 217 are is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side 214 b. Thus, when in a deployed state with the first surface 215 of each of the attenuator segments 210 facing each other, the cavities 218 align with and substantially accommodate the protrusions 217 such that the first surfaces are substantially flush with each other. Thus, the movement of the attenuator segments relative to each other is at least partially constrained by the cooperation between the cavities 118 and protrusions 217. This is merely one embodiment, and it is anticipated that this feature may take on various shapes. For example, additional features may be provided to interlock or dovetail with one another by means of additional mating features. The second surface 216 is also provided with a recess 222 to accommodate coupling assembly 300.

As shown in FIGS. 3-6 and 8A, an exemplary attenuator segment 210 contains a filling hole 120 to allow filling the attenuator segment 210 with a weighting substance. The weighting substance may be a liquid, flowable solid, or other such substance which may be suitably inserted into the interior of the attenuator segment 210 to provide additional weight to attenuator segment 210. Liquids may include but are not limited to water, alcohol, or a mix thereof, and may be a combination of liquids to provide for additional benefits such as preventing the liquid from freezing in cold weather conditions. Flowable solids may include sand, gravel, or other granular products. Other exemplary substances include advanced materials such as non-Newtonian fluid which may change its viscosity when a force is applied. Such exemplary other substances may further improve the crash attenuating ability of the system 100 by absorbing kinetic energy in a manner not achieved by standard liquids or flowable solids. Filling hole 220 may be capped to prevent the weighting substance from escaping the attenuator segment 210. It is understood that filling hole 220 may be located elsewhere on the attenuator segment 210, such as on one of the lateral sides 214, or any other such location suitable to fill the attenuator segment 210 with a weighting substance.

In some embodiments, each attenuator segment 210 holds approximately 40 gallons of weighting substance. Conventional systems include subassemblies that hold a much larger amount of weighting fluid. Utilizing a larger number of attenuator segments 210 with a smaller fill volume provides an advantage that each individual segment may be fine tuned to control the center of mass of the system 100. Having more accurate control over the center of mass of the system 100 provides the ability to accurately tailor the deceleration profile of an impacting vehicle to the needs of the particular application while maintaining vehicle operator safety.

At least one of the lateral sides 214 contain a draining hole 221 configured to allow the weighting substance to be drained from an attenuator segment 210. However, it is understood that draining hole 221 may be located elsewhere on the attenuator segment 210, such as on the lower side 213, first surface 215, or second surface 216. Draining hole 221 may be capped to prevent unintentional release of the weighting substance.

As additionally shown in FIGS. 3-4, 8A, and 8B, in some embodiments, the first lateral side 214 a and second lateral side 214 b include a plurality of grooves 219. These grooves exist on the exterior surface of the lateral sides 214 and are designed to accommodate a tensioning element 400. The tensioning element 400 may take the form of a steel cable, as described below. Each groove 219 preferably acts to constrain the movement of the tensioning element 400 in at least one direction while permitting the tensioning element 400 to freely move in a different direction. For example, grooves 219 may restrict the movement of tensioning element 400 in the vertical direction, but may allow the tensioning element 400 to freely slide in the horizontal direction defined in a direction between the first surface 215 and the second surface 216. In another example, grooves 219 may restrict the movement of tensioning element 400 in a direction orthogonal to a plane defined by the base of the groove 219, which may result in the tensioning element 400 being partially constrained in vertical direction, and partially constrained in a lateral direction defined between the lateral sides 214 a and 214 b. In a further example, groove 219 may only limit the movement of tensioning element 400 when a tensile load is applied to tensioning cable 400.

FIG. 9 illustrates an example of the connection between two attenuator segment pairs 200, connected to one another by their respective coupling assemblies 300. For ease of reference, FIG. 9 omits two attenuator segments from area 200 x in order to more clearly display the tensioning element 400 and coupling assembly 300. Each segment pair 200 is held together by tensioning element 400 and coupling assembly 300.

FIG. 10 illustrates and exemplary coupling assembly 300 and tensioning element 400. In the embodiment shown in FIG. 10, the coupling assembly 300 consists of a slotted tube 312 consisting of a hollow tubes affixed via welding or other attachment means to a tension member attachment assembly 314 a. The slotted tube 312 aligns with one or more outer loops 315 that consist of hollow tubes that are permanently affixed to the tension member attachment assembly 314 b corresponding to the adjacent segment pair 200. When the slotted tube 312 and outer loops 315 are aligned, a securement rod 316 is inserted in the channel formed by the slotted tube and outer loops. When in a deployed position, the securement rod 316 secures the segment pair 200 to the adjacent segment pair. To lock the securement rod, a quick release pin 318 is inserted through a channel formed by an opening in opposing sides of the outer loop 315 and the securement rod 316. Thus, the coupling assembly 300 can be separated by removing the securement pin 318 and securement rod 316. After removal, the coupling assembly is separated into tension member attachment assembly 314 a and slotted tube 312 on one half and tension member attachment assembly 314 b and outer loops 315 on the second half. The coupling assembly 300 is preferably made of metal. The selected metal is preferably of the type which can withstand substantial corrosion due to weather such as stainless steel. The selected metal may also be a coated in a material such as paint, or may have undergone a coating process such as galvanization, to prevent or reduce the effects of corrosion of the underlying metal.

As additionally shown in FIG. 10, each tensioning element is affixed to the tension member attachment assembly 314 via an adjustable threaded eyebolt 320. Eyebolt 320 may be permanently or removably attached to one or more tensioning elements 400. The one or more tensioning elements 400 may be attached to eyebolt 320 by a termination point 322 formed at the ends of each tensioning element 400, which may be a loop or other suitable attachment methods known in the art. Each tension member attachment assembly 314 may include a plate 324 for securing the eyebolt via a nut 326. The nut 326 may be turned to move the eyebolt 320 through a hole in the plate 324. Such movement applies a tensile force through the length of the tensioning element 400 and results in a compressive force between the attenuator segments 210. This force holds the attenuator segments together, forming a complete attenuator segment pair 200.

The tensioning elements 400 are preferably cables made of metal. The selected metal is preferably of the type which can withstand substantial corrosion due to weather, such as stainless steel. The selected metal may also be a coated in a material such as paint, or may have undergone a coating process such as galvanization, to prevent or reduce the effects of corrosion of the underlying metal. The tensioning element 400 may be comprised of a flexible material, where “flexible” means that the cables can easily bend under their own weight. Such flexible materials include steel cabling, also referred to a “wire rope,” composed of multiple smaller wire strands. However, the flexible material may also consist of a single metallic wire strand such as steel wire. Alternatively, the tensioning element 400 may consist of a substantially rigid metal, such that each tensioning element 400 is pre-formed in substantially the final shape it will attain after installation of the crash attenuator system 100. In a preferred embodiment, the tensioning elements 400 are daisy chained together so as to maintain their structural integrity during an impact, but also fly free of the segment pairs 200, in order to transfer energy away from the impact.

As tensioning elements 400 may be variably tensioned through the use of the eye bolt 320, it is possible to remove one or more attenuator segments 210, without disassembling the entire crash attenuator system 100. This serves multiple advantages, including eliminating the need to replace the entire system 100 should a single segment 210 be damaged. A maintenance operator may simply replace the damaged segment 210 with a new segment. This modular construction is beneficial from both a cost and time perspective.

FIGS. 11 and 12 illustrate an exemplary end cap 600. The end cap 600 may be configured to at least partially surround a front attenuator segment pair 200 a, and may include similar attachment means to the front attenuator segment pair 200 a as those described in the barrier attachment assembly 500. Alternately, the end cap 600 may be physically attached to front segment pair 200 a, or it may be simply slid over the end of front segment pair 200 a. End cap 600 may be made of any suitable material including metal or plastic. End cap 600 may further include a reflective surface designed to warn the operator of a vehicle of the location of the system 100. Furthermore, in some embodiments the end cap 600 is approximately 200 to 300 lbs., a weight that, when combined with proper fluid fill levels in the array of segment pairs 200, controls deceleration of an impacting vehicle at a rate that is safe to the vehicle operator.

While some implementations have been illustrated and described, numerous modifications come to mind without significantly departing from the spirit of the disclosure, and the scope of protection is only limited by the scope of the accompanying claims. Terms such as “top,” “bottom,” “front,” “rear” and the like as used in this disclosure should be understood as referring to an arbitrary frame of reference, rather than to the ordinary gravitational frame of reference. Thus, a top surface, a bottom surface, a front surface, and a rear surface may extend upwardly, downwardly, diagonally, or horizontally in a gravitational frame of reference. Furthermore, to the extent that the term “include,” “have,” or the like is used in the description or the claims, such term is intended to be inclusive in a manner similar to the term “comprise” as “comprise” is interpreted when employed as a transitional word in a claim.

The word “exemplary” is used herein to mean “serving as an example, instance, or illustration.” Any embodiment described herein as “exemplary” is not necessarily to be construed as preferred or advantageous over other embodiments. Phrases such as an aspect, the aspect, another aspect, some aspects, one or more aspects, an implementation, the implementation, another implementation, some implementations, one or more implementations, an embodiment, the embodiment, another embodiment, some embodiments, one or more embodiments, a configuration, the configuration, another configuration, some configurations, one or more configurations, the subject technology, the disclosure, the present disclosure, other variations thereof and alike are for convenience and do not imply that a disclosure relating to such phrase(s) is essential to the subject technology or that such disclosure applies to all configurations of the subject technology. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may apply to all configurations, or one or more configurations. A disclosure relating to such phrase(s) may provide one or more examples. A phrase such as an aspect or some aspects may refer to one or more aspects and vice versa, and this applies similarly to other foregoing phrases.

A reference to an element in the singular is not intended to mean “one and only one” unless specifically stated, but rather “one or more.” Pronouns in the masculine (e.g., his) include the feminine and neuter gender (e.g., her and its) and vice versa. The term “some” refers to one or more. Underlined and/or italicized headings and subheadings are used for convenience only, do not limit the subject technology, and are not referred to in connection with the interpretation of the description of the subject technology. Relational terms such as first and second and the like may be used to distinguish one entity or action from another without necessarily requiring or implying any actual such relationship or order between such entities or actions. All structural and functional equivalents to the elements of the various configurations described throughout this disclosure that are known or later come to be known to those of ordinary skill in the art are expressly incorporated herein by reference and intended to be encompassed by the subject technology. Moreover, nothing disclosed herein is intended to be dedicated to the public regardless of whether such disclosure is explicitly recited in the above description.

While this specification contains many specifics, these should not be construed as limitations on the scope of what may be claimed, but rather as descriptions of particular implementations of the subject matter. Certain features that are described in this specification in the context of separate embodiments can also be implemented in combination in a single embodiment. Conversely, various features that are described in the context of a single embodiment can also be implemented in multiple embodiments separately or in any suitable subcombination. Moreover, although features may be described above as acting in certain combinations and even initially claimed as such, one or more features from a claimed combination can in some cases be excised from the combination, and the claimed combination may be directed to a subcombination or variation of a subcombination.

The subject matter of this specification has been described in terms of particular aspects, but other aspects can be implemented and are within the scope of the following claims. For example, while operations are depicted in the drawings in a particular order, this should not be understood as requiring that such operations be performed in the particular order shown or in sequential order, or that all illustrated operations be performed, to achieve desirable results. The actions recited in the claims can be performed in a different order and still achieve desirable results. As one example, the processes depicted in the accompanying figures do not necessarily require the particular order shown, or sequential order, to achieve desirable results. In certain circumstances, multitasking and parallel processing may be advantageous. Moreover, the separation of various system components in the aspects described above should not be understood as requiring such separation in all aspects, and it should be understood that the described program components and systems can generally be integrated together in a single product or packaged into multiple products.

The title, background, brief description of the drawings, abstract, and drawings are hereby incorporated into the disclosure and are provided as illustrative examples of the disclosure, not as restrictive descriptions. It is submitted with the understanding that they will not be used to limit the scope or meaning of the claims. In addition, in the detailed description, it can be seen that the description provides illustrative examples and the various features are grouped together in various implementations for the purpose of streamlining the disclosure. The method of disclosure is not to be interpreted as reflecting an intention that the claimed subject matter requires more features than are expressly recited in each claim. Rather, as the claims reflect, inventive subject matter lies in less than all features of a single disclosed configuration or operation. The claims are hereby incorporated into the detailed description, with each claim standing on its own as a separately claimed subject matter.

The claims are not intended to be limited to the aspects described herein, but are to be accorded the full scope consistent with the language claims and to encompass all legal equivalents. Notwithstanding, none of the claims are intended to embrace subject matter that fails to satisfy the requirements of the applicable patent law, nor should they be interpreted in such a way.

The disclosed systems and methods are well adapted to attain the ends and advantages mentioned as well as those that are inherent therein. The particular implementations disclosed above are illustrative only, as the teachings of the present disclosure may be modified and practiced in different but equivalent manners apparent to those skilled in the art having the benefit of the teachings herein. Furthermore, no limitations are intended to the details of construction or design herein shown, other than as described in the claims below. It is therefore evident that the particular illustrative implementations disclosed above may be altered, combined, or modified and all such variations are considered within the scope of the present disclosure. The systems and methods illustratively disclosed herein may suitably be practiced in the absence of any element that is not specifically disclosed herein and/or any optional element disclosed herein. While compositions and methods are described in terms of “comprising,” “containing,” or “including” various components or steps, the compositions and methods can also “consist essentially of” or “consist of” the various components and steps. All numbers and ranges disclosed above may vary by some amount. Whenever a numerical range with a lower limit and an upper limit is disclosed, any number and any included range falling within the range is specifically disclosed. In particular, every range of values (of the form, “from about a to about b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a to b,” or, equivalently, “from approximately a-b”) disclosed herein is to be understood to set forth every number and range encompassed within the broader range of values. Also, the terms in the claims have their plain, ordinary meaning unless otherwise explicitly and clearly defined by the patentee. Moreover, the indefinite articles “a” or “an,” as used in the claims, are defined herein to mean one or more than one of the element that it introduces. If there is any conflict in the usages of a word or term in this specification and one or more patent or other documents that may be incorporated herein by reference, the definitions that are consistent with this specification should be adopted.

As used herein, the phrase “at least one of” preceding a series of items, with the terms “and” or “or” to separate any of the items, modifies the list as a whole, rather than each article of the list (i.e., each item). The phrase “at least one of” allows a meaning that includes at least one of any one of the items, and/or at least one of any combination of the items, and/or at least one of each of the items. By way of example, the phrases “at least one of A, B, and C” or “at least one of A, B, or C” each refer to only A, only B, or only C; any combination of A, B, and C; and/or at least one of each of A, B, and C. 

What is claimed is:
 1. A modular crash attenuator system comprising: an array of attenuator segment pair assemblies, said attenuator segment pair assemblies comprising: a first attenuator segment and a second attenuator segment, a tensioning assembly configured to removably couple the first attenuator segment adjacent to the second attenuator segment, and a coupling assembly configured to removably couple the attenuator segment pair assembly to at least one other attenuator segment pair assembly; a barrier attachment assembly disposed at a first end of the array and coupled to at least one attenuator segment pair; an end cap assembly disposed at a second end of the array, the second end being opposite the first end; and wherein each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment comprises: an upper side, a lower side disposed opposite the upper side, a first lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, a second lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, the second lateral side disposed opposite the first lateral side, a first surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, the second surface disposed opposite the first surface; wherein a first cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a first protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side; wherein the first cavity on the first attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate the first protrusion on the second attenuator segment such that the first surface on the first attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the second attenuator segment when the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are in a deployed state.
 2. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the first lateral side and the second lateral side of each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are further configured with at least two grooves configured to accommodate the tensioning assembly.
 3. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein a second cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a second protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side; and wherein the second cavity on the first attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate the second protrusion on the second attenuator segment such that the first surface on the first attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the second attenuator segment when the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are in the deployed state.
 4. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the second surface of each of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment is further configured with a recess to accommodate the coupling assembly.
 5. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the coupling assembly comprises: a slotted tube configured to receive a securement bar for coupling the attenuator segment pair assembly to at least one other attenuator segment pair assembly, the slotted tube containing at least two securement holes on opposing surfaces of the slotted tube for receiving a securement pin; wherein the other attenuator segment pair assembly includes a complementary slotted tube configured to align with the slotted tube of the coupling assembly in order to receive the securement bar; wherein the securement bar contains a securement channel that aligns with the securement holes for receiving the securement pin; wherein the securement pin secures the securement bar to the slotted tube.
 6. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 5, wherein the securement pin is a quick-release style pin.
 7. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the tensioning assembly comprises a plurality of tensioning cables configured to contact at least the first lateral sides and the second lateral sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment; and wherein the tensioning cable are removably affixed to the coupling assembly.
 8. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 7, wherein the tensioning cables are removably affixed to the coupling assembly through a variable-tensioning assembly; wherein the tensioning cables are configured to provide a resultant compressive force between the first and second attenuator segments when the variable-tensioning assembly is in a deployed state.
 9. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 8, wherein the variable tensioning assembly comprises one or more eye-bolts threaded to one or more plates in the coupling assembly.
 10. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are hollow and configured to be filled with water.
 11. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 10, wherein a fill location is disposed on each of the upper sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment; and wherein a drain is disposed on at least one of the first lateral sides or the second lateral sides of the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment.
 12. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 10, wherein the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment expand when filled with water.
 13. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment comprise blow-molded high-density polyethylene.
 14. The modular crash attenuator system of claim 1, wherein a width of the array is approximately 24 inches and a height of the array is between 32 inches and 42 inches; and wherein the first attenuator segment and the second attenuator segment are hollow and have an outer wall thickness of between approximately 0.188 inches and 0.438 inches.
 15. A crash attenuator segment for use in a modular crash attenuator system, the crash attenuator segment comprising: an upper side, a lower side disposed opposite the upper side, a first lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, a second lateral side extending between the upper side and the lower side, the second lateral side disposed opposite the first lateral side, a first surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, and a second surface extending between the first lateral side and the second lateral side, the second surface disposed opposite the first surface; wherein a first cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a first protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side; wherein the first cavity on the attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate a first protrusion on a paired attenuator segment such that the first surface on the attenuator segment is substantially flush with a first surface on the paired attenuator segment when the attenuator segment and the paired attenuator segment are in a deployed state.
 16. The crash attenuator segment of claim 15, wherein the first lateral side and the second lateral side are further configured with at least two grooves configured to accommodate a tensioning assembly.
 17. The crash attenuator segment of claim 15, wherein a second cavity is disposed on the first surface adjacent the first lateral side and a second protrusion is disposed on the first surface adjacent the second lateral side; and wherein the second cavity on the attenuator segment is disposed to substantially accommodate a second protrusion on the paired attenuator segment such that the first surface on the attenuator segment is substantially flush with the first surface on the paired attenuator segment when the attenuator segment and the paired attenuator segment are in the deployed state.
 18. The crash attenuator segment of claim 15, wherein the second surface of the attenuator segment is further configured with a recess to accommodate a coupling assembly.
 19. The crash attenuator segment of claim 15, wherein the attenuator segment comprises blow-molded high-density polyethylene.
 20. The crash attenuator segment of claim 15, wherein a width of the attenuator segment is approximately 24 inches and a height of the attenuator segment is between 32 inches and 42 inches; and wherein the attenuator segment is hollow and has an outer wall thickness of of between approximately 0.188 inches and 0.438 inches. 